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Vehicle tires don’t last forever, and driving on ones that need to be replaced can be downright dangerous. That’s why the auto repair specialists at Stillwater Auto Clinic in Minnesota encourage drivers to look for common warning signs that their tires are too worn to drive on safely.

5 Indicators You Need New Tires

1. The Tread Wear Is Worn

It’s easy to assume a car’s tires aren’t too worn because they’re not that old, but the truth is, many factors contribute to wear and tear. Tire quality, poor alignment, and road conditions can all cause even fairly new tires to experience uneven wear. If the tread looks uneven, measure the tread depth using a penny. Place the penny down into the tread with Lincoln facing you. If you can see all his head, the tread is unsafe.

2. Your Tires Are Old

Most tires don’t last beyond six years, so if your tires are older than that, it’s time to have them inspected by an auto repair shop. When you purchase new tires, you’re given a general idea of how many miles they will last, which is another indicator of your tires’ age. Keep track of how long you’ve had your tires and how long the manufacturer expects them to last.

3. They Don’t Perform Well Anymore

auto repairThere are many performance signs your tires are nearing the end of their life, such as louder than normal road noise, a rougher than usual ride, a vibrating steering wheel, and frequent air leaks. Of course, these can all be symptoms of other issues, which is why having your car looked at by a professional is recommended.

4. There’s Damage to the Tire

If there are visible cracks, cuts, objects embedded, or bubbles in the sidewall, these are all obvious signs your tire needs repair or replacement. A tire repair shop can let you know if the damage is repairable or if it’s safer to replace the tire. 

5. You Live in a Snowy Location

Winter can impact tires, which is why many residents of Minnesota opt to buy two sets of tires — one for winter and one for the rest of the year. Winter tires get better traction on frozen surfaces, but they experience extra wear, shortening their lifespans.

If you still need help determining whether your tires need replacing, stop by Stillwater Auto Clinic and an auto repair technician will be happy to assist you. You can also schedule an appointment by calling (651) 351-7188 or visit their website for more information.

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